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850-378-2500

6705 Pine Forest Rd - Suite 300
Pensacola, FL  32526
Fax : 850-807-5071

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Boat Insurance

What does Boat Insurance cover?

Most boat policies cover physical damage to the hull, sails, machinery, furnishings, and most other equipment that is normally used on board. Most dangers are covered including vandalism, malicious mischief, and damage which results from collision or sinking.

Insurance needs differ depending on the type, age, or value of the boat or watercraft you own. Your policy will explain in detail what is covered and what is specifically excluded.

What about Liability Coverage for your boat policy?

You are also insured against liability losses. You are covered for damage you may cause to another boat, yacht, personal water craft, sailboat or dock, and for bodily injury or death to another person while operating your vessle.

Under most boat policies, the boat trailer is covered against physical loss or damage from any external cause.

What additional coverage is included on a boat policy?

You may purchase optional coverages, such as:

• Coverage for your personal property
• Coverage for your fishing equipment
• Coverage against injury to you caused by an uninsured boater

What types of boats can we help you insure?

• Bow Rider - Open bow type of boat with seating. They are best suited for use in lakes and inland waterways.
  
  
• Center Consoles - Single decked open hull boats with the operator's console (helm) in the center of the boat. Work great as fishing boats. Most are powered by outboard motors.
  
  
• Cuddy Cabin - A boat that contains a small cabin in the bow..
  
  
• Walk Around - Cross between center console and a cuddy boat. Generally used as fishing boats and they contain a small cabin.
  
  
• Ski Boats - Flat bottom, high torque boats designed to safely tow water skiers. Powered by high-horsepower engines.
  
  
• Pontoon - Relatively inexpensive, flat hulls that sit on pontoons. Commonly referred to as "party boats". Should only be used in calm inland waters.
  
  
• Jet Boats - Propelled by a jet of water ejected from the back of the craft. Come in a variety of sizes.
  
  
• Personal Watercraft (PWC) - A watercraft used for recreational purposes that you sit or stand on. Often referred to as WaveRunner, Jet Ski or Sea Doo which are actually brand names.
  
  
• Sailboats - A boat propelled partially or entirely by sails. Can be used for racing, sport or just cruising.
  
  
• Bass Boats - A small, flat bottom boat used primarily for bass fishing in inland waters. They are often equipped with swivel chairs for easy casting.
  
  
• Commercial Vessels and P&I
  
  
• Private Pleasure Craft from $50,000 to $200,000,000.
  
  
• Cargo Commercial Fishing
  
  
• Charter International Risks

Is my boat covered when it's not in the water?

It's covered if you have physical damage (comprehensive and collision) coverage.  Liability, Uninsured Motorist and Medical Payments coverages only respond when your boat is in the water.

If I am in an accident while towing my boat who pays for the
damages?

If your boat is damaged your boat policy will respond if you have physical damage (comprehensive and collision) coverage on your policy.

Simply call 850-378-2500 or complete our online quote request form.Your local GreatFlorida Boat Insurance Agent in Florida will help you find the best deal for you.

Get a Quote Online

About Boat Insurance in West Pensacola, FL

A subtropical climate with almost 1,200 miles of coastline creates the ideal conditions for boat owners in West Pensacola, FL. GreatFlorida Boat Insurance will dissipate your worries so you can relax and have safe fun on the water.

Donna Creel at GreatFlorida Insurance West Pensacola, FL offers customized boat insurance policies to guard against unexpected damages, replacement and liability.  Whether you plan to fish, water ski or enjoy the sunset, we cover many different boats with optional coverage to reflect your lifestyle.

Boat Insurance will give you peace of mind while you are out on the water. GreatFlorida Insurance offers boat owners in West Pensacola a variety of protection from the risks of owning, operating and towing your boat.

GreatFlorida Boat Insurance provides coverage to jet skis, sailboats, yachts, fishing boats, ski boats and more. GreatFlorida Insurance carries top notch marine insurance policies to protect your vessel. Contact Donna Creel at GreatFlorida Insurance today and our they will get to work for you with a simple, free quote.

Whether you currently own a boat, yacht, personal water craft, sailboat or are a prospective buyer, Donna Creel at GreatFlorida Insurance West Pensacola, FL can help you find the right Boat Insurance policy at the right price.

GreatFlorida Insurance shops all the major carriers in West Pensacola, to find the best policy and the best rate. Easy, Low-Cost and Worry Free. That's the GreatFlorida Insurance promise.

Simply call 850-378-2500 or complete our online quote request form.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

5/24/2017

“Florida is one of the rare places you can enjoy boating the entire year,” says Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s largest independent boat insurance agency.

In conjunction with National Safe Boating Week, Gov. Rick Scott has issued this week, Safe Boating Week in Florida. Florida leads the nation with nearly 1 million registered vessels across the state, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission(FWC). Additionally, Memorial Day weekend will contribute to a higher number of boats on the water.

Whether you are cruising, fishing or swimming, implementing safe boating rules will guarantee long hours of fun while out on the water.

The FWC ‘s 2016 Boating Accident Statistical Reports indicates the leading cause attributed to boating accidents in 2016 was the operator’s inattention or lack of proper lookout. Falls overboard are the leading type of fatal accident since 2003. Drowning is the leading cause of death.

“There should be no stigma with wearing a life vest on a boat. It is just as important as wearing a seat belt in a car,” says Buck, with GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s top independent boat insurance agency.

While life jackets prevent drowning, many people do not like to wear them because they are uncomfortable, too hot, get in the way of sun or hinder swimming. Maj. Rob Rowe, leader of the FWC’s Boating and Waterways Section, suggests wearing an inflatable model and you will hardly know you have one on.

Earlier this year a pair of University of Florida students competing in a fishing tournament were thrown from their boat while it was traveling at 57 miles per hour. The boat experienced a steering part failure. Thankfully both men were wearing life jackets and using a kill switch, which cuts the engine if the driver is thrown from the boat.

At safeboatingcampaign.com, you can read about different life jacket styles, how to find the proper fit and how to care for your life jacket.

For additional safety boating tips, the FWC recommends:

Wearing a life jacket

Using an engine cut-off switch lanyard

Designating a sober boat operator

Paying attention and keeping proper look out

Have an emergency locator beacon

Filing a float plan

Take a boating safety class

GreatFlorida Insurance insures all types of vessels from Jet Skis to commercial fishing boats. Give us a call for all your boat insurance needs.

The post Keep Boating Fun appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

3/8/2017

While Florida does not require you to get boat insurance before you register your vessel, boat insurance is a good idea. Boat insurance offers protection from the responsibility of owning, operating and towing your boat.

“Many homeowners, mistakenly assume a boat is covered under their homeowner’s insurance,” said Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance.“Depending on your homeowner’s policy, you might have limited coverage on a small vessel on your property.”

As a matter of fact, if your boat is financed, your lender may require you to have boat insurance. Also, certain marinas and harbors require insurance for you to dock your boat.

Much like car insurance, there are different options to choose from when it comes to buying boat insurance. Your insurance needs depend on the type of watercraft you own while selecting the option you feel most comfortable with.

Buck, with GreatFlorida Insurance explains the difference between liability, collision, comprehensive and medical coverage.

Liability Losses– this will cover bodily injury and property damage in an accident where you are at fault.

Comprehensive and Collision– Physical damage or comprehensive and collision will cover any out of water incidents. Collision covers damage to a boat involved in a collision. Comprehensive coverage protects your boat if it is stolen, damaged by a fire or vandalized.

Uninsured Coverage– this will cover costs for damage and injuries if you are involved in a collision with a boater that does not have boat insurance.

Medical Coverage– will cover costs related to injuries suffered in a boat accident. Check your health insurance first, it could provide the adequate coverage you need.

Additional coverage is also available for fishing equipment and other boat related personal property you want to insure.

Financial Website, Money Crashers recommends purchasing comprehensive coverage if you have a loan on your boat or you own a newer model.

When purchasing boat insurance, you must also choose how the insurance company will pay you in the event of a claim.

The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) encourages boat owners to insure their boat for the amount it would cost you to replace it which is the “Agreed Value.”

The “Actual Cash Value” coverage reimburses you the current market value for your boat or personal belongings. Because everything depreciates, you will usually get less than what you originally paid.

As a final point, boat repairs can be costly making boat insurance a great defense to protect your investment.

GreatFlorida Insurance covers a wide variety of boats including yachts, ski boats, pontoons, jet boats, sailboats, bass boats, commercial vessels also cover personal watercraft such as a Wave Runner.

The post Do I Need Boat Insurance? appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

11/9/2016

Looking for a cure to that election hangover? Sunshine, saltwater and fresh air is the remedy.

“The fall is a less crowded time to enjoy fishing before the winter travel season gets going,” suggests Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s largest boat insurance agency.

Extended fishing for red snapper

As we approach the middle of fall, your fishing days are not lost.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has extended red snapper season this November. Governor Rick Scott requested the season expand as a measure to offset the economic setbacks from Hurricane Hermine.

Consequently, the recreational red snapper season in Gulf state waters will remain open for additional days this month. November 11 and 12, Veterans Day holiday and November 25, 26 and 27 for Thanksgiving weekend.

No license, no problem

In addition, the FWC has made November 26 a salt water license-free fishing day. Making it easy to invite out of town family and guests to join you in angling adventures.

What’s biting?

“Fish are plentiful in the fall,” reminds Buck with GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s top independent boat insurance agency.

In fact, certain species of fish enjoy the cooler water temperatures. November is a great time to catch red grouper, black grouper, gag grouper, Amberjack, flounder and much more. For a more comprehensive list, check out Fishing-Florida.com. They have a seasons and species a chart to discover what you can catch in the fall.

Manatees

Be sure to slow down! November is Manatee Awareness Month. Manatees begin to migrate to warmer waters and can be found in rivers, bays or coastal waters.

With this in mind, wearing polarized sunglasses can help boaters spot manatees. They tend to swim just below the water’s surface making them difficult to spot.

GreatFlorida Insurance can make sure you are fully prepared before you head out to trawl. We offer premium boat insurance at affordable prices. Contact a GreatFlorida Insurance agent to make sure you have proper boat insurance and adequate coverage for your equipment.

The post Take Advantage of Fishing this November appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

7/13/2016

“It isn’t often when Florida officials persuade fishermen and divers to get rid of fish,” says Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s largest independent boat insurance agency.

Lionfish are having a detrimental impact on Florida’s native species and habitats. The lionfish population is at a rapid increase and ruining Florida’s underwater eco-system.

As a result, The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) is encouraging divers, anglers and commercial harvesters to eliminate lionfish. There is no recreational or commercial bag limit as well as no size limit. They can be speared, caught with a hand- held net or hook and line.

Native to the Indo-Pacific, lionfish began showing up along the U.S. Coastline and Gulf of Mexico in the 1980’s. Experts believe they arrived by way of  domestic fish tank and aquarium dumps.

The National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration ( NOAA) says they cause problems for many reasons. Lionfish have no known predators, a voracious appetite, they reproduce quickly and grow rapidly.

“Due to their venomous spines, care must be taken when handling lionfish,” reports Buck from GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s leading independent boat insurance agency.

They have up to 18 venomous spines and can sting after they are dead. NOAA reports the fish stings can cause extreme pain, swelling, respiratory distress and even paralysis.

Some Florida grocery stores want to help eradicate the species and prove their dedication to sustainability.  They are selling the invasive species in their seafood departments. Whole Foods Market is offering fresh lionfish in 26 of their Florida stores. At Publix Supermarkets, you can special order lionfish to be cleaned and filleted. While Wegmans, a grocery store in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states, is also offering Florida caught lionfish.

Whole Foods explains, trained employees will remove the poisonous spines from the fish. They describe the fish as,“ white, buttery meat [that] lends itself to any number of different recipes. From ceviche to a simple pan sauté.”

According to the Sun Sentinel, “Asking Floridians to eat their way out of a potential environmental disaster has drawn praise from scientist and conservationist.

GreatFlorida Insurance shops all the major carriers in Florida to find the best boat insurance at the best rate. Contact us today.

 

 

The post Taking a Bite Out of Lionfish appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

4/28/2016

“Most boaters are concerned about the health of the ocean and want to learn more about how they can protect Florida waterways,” says Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s largest independent boat insurance agency.

Ocean conservation group, Sailors for the Sea have produced a guide with suggestions on how to boat cleaner. Their eco-tips apply to boaters with small sailboats to those with large mega-yachts. Suggestions range from sustainable maintenance to efficient boat operation. Some of their recommendations are listed below.

Waste disposal and recycling-Plastic waste is one of the largest threats to our oceans and marine life. The world produces 300 billion pounds of plastic each year, 10 percent ends up in the ocean according to sustainability website, EverythingConnects.org. Some simple changes can help improve on healthy waters.

• Utilize reusable containers
• Remove product packing before you go board your boat.
• Never throw trash overboard.
• Encourage your marina to provide recycling facilities.

Spillproof Fueling – Filling up fuel tanks is one of the most common ways we unintentionally pollute our waters.

• Maintain your fuel lines and fuel tanks to avoid, cracks, leaks, corrosion or damage.
• Know the capacity of your fuel tanks or portable container.
• When fueling, turn off the engine, electronics and extinguish any open flame.
• Place an absorbent bib or collar around the fuel intake.
• Keep the nozzle in contact with the edge of the fill to prevent the build-up of static electricity.
• Fill your tank slowly and allow some room for expansion. Boat fuel tanks are not pressurized like car fuel tanks, so the automatic shut-off nozzle rarely works.

Reduce Fuel Usage – How you operate your vessel can significantly affect how much fuel you use. “Performing routine engine maintenance and repairs can prevent leaks preventing pollution and improve fuel efficiency,” says Buck with GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s top independent boat insurance agency.

• Using trim tabs and power trim carefully prevents plowing and reduces drag
• Check your wake, a large wake indicates your boat is trying to climb the water’s surface and is using extra power and fuel.
• Look at your exhaust, a well-maintained diesel engine should produce virtually invisible exhaust.
• Black exhaust- the engine is overloaded
• White exhaust- you have an injector or valve timing problem
• Blue exhaust- oil is in the combustion chambers

Anchoring-Poor anchoring techniques can disturb or damage shellfish beds, coral reefs or sea grass habitats, while the proper skills can preserve aquatic habitats and wildlife.

• Use existing mooring buoys if available
• Anchor in deep water to avoid grounding your vessel in tide changes.
• Anchor in sand or mud to avoid vital ecosystems
• If anchoring ashore, avoid sand dunes and don’t tie your rope to a tree.
• When retrieving your anchor, motor slowly toward the anchor and retrieve the line when it is vertical
• An old mariners saying about the color of water can give you an indication of what is below
  • Brown, brown run aground
  • White, white you just might
  • Green, green nice and clean
  • Blue, blue cruise on through

No matter what type of vessel you own, GreatFlorida Insurance can provide you with the boat insurance you need. Fill out  free quote request online.

The post Green Boating Tips appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

3/22/2016

Before heading out for an adventure on the water, make sure you have the suitable protection in place if an accident happens. In 2014, the United States Coast Guard (USCG) reported Florida had $7,386,874 in boat damages.

“At GreatFlorida Insurance, we can customize your boat insurance policy to fit your specific watercraft lifestyle,” says Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s largest independent boat insurance agency.

Listed below are some of the most common causes of boat damage and how you can prevent them.

Striking a submerged object – It is very difficult to avoid striking a submerged object such as a log because it can be so hard to see. Drought conditions and heavy rains can contribute to floating debris in the water.  If you hit a submerged object, stop and check the bilge for leaks. Once you arrive at the dock, do another more thorough check for damage.

Grounding – Grounding can be prevented by keeping up to date and accurate charts as well as a depth finder or depth sounder. Once you run aground check for leaks. Next, stop the engine and lift the outdrive.  Powering up can result in more damage to your vessel. Shift weight to the area farthest away from the point of impact and try shoving off with a paddle or boathook. If this does not work, it is best to wait for the tide or a tow to get you back in the water.

Storms – Protecting your boat from bad weather often depends on the amount of advanced warning you are given. “Storms are common in Florida, so it is best to have a plan of action in place before a storm hits,” recommends Buck of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s top independent boat insurance agency.

Everything removable should come off the boat or be secured such as, canvas, sails, radios, dinghies, cushions or life vests. Shut off and disconnect all electrical systems and remove your battery. Make sure all openings are closed and sealed.

Sinking – Bad weather, grounding and strikes can cause your boat to take on water. Holes and damage can also be responsible. Regular maintenance and inspections will help keep the water out. Examine drains and scuppers before setting out and during your trip. Confirm the bilge pump is fully operational and installed at the lowest part of the bilge so it can detect the water level and turn on when necessary. Also, make sure the battery is fully charged.

Fire – Most boat fires are fuel-related or caused by electrical issues. A boat fire can result in a total loss. Boating Magazine reports boat fires are especially dangerous because, “fiberglass burns vigorously while emitting toxic fumes.” Avoid a lapse in maintenance and check your fuel-system regularly. Faulty wiring or corrosion in your wires should be repaired right away. Always keep the proper number of working fire extinguishers on board.

Collision – Unlike the roads, the water has no marked lanes or stoplights.  It is important to be vigilant while driving a boat. The best way to avoid a collision with another boat is to learn International and Inland Navigational Rules. Watch your speed around other boats, keep watch on traffic around you including blind spots and make course changes early.

GreatFlorida Insurance can customize a boat insurance policy to protect your vessel and extend to your boating equipment in and out of the water. Give us a call today.

The post Top Causes of Boat Damage appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.

by GreatFlorida Insurance

2/1/2016

When filing your taxes, you want to take every opportunity possible to save money on expenses that can reduce your taxable income.

“Deductions are sometimes available on health programs and treatments such as smoking cessation, weight loss and alcohol and drug abuse, if it is not covered under your current health insurance policy,” says Ellsworth Buck, Vice President of GreatFlorida Insurance, Florida’s largest independent healthcare insurance agency.”

Below is a list of some commonly missed tax deductions and credits that could be available to you.

• State and Local Sales Tax Deduction– Floridians do not pay a state income tax making taxpayers eligible to deduct state income tax paid on purchases. If you purchased a large item such as a car or boat, you can add the sales tax paid to the amount sown on the IRS tax table.
• Charitable Contributions-Money donated to your church, a charity or even if you purged your closet or home of household items and dropped them off at Goodwill, those can be counted. Out-of-pocket expenses such as food ingredients needed to prepare meals for a soup kitchen or if you drove your car for charitable activities, you can deduct 14 cents per mile.
• Tuition-There are Hope and Lifetime Learning Credits, as well as the American Opportunity Tax Credit available for those taking classes. A tax credit is available for tuition, fees, books and other educational supplies for you, your spouse or dependents.
• Health Insurance-“Health insurance premiums for self-employed people, are 100 percent deductible from their gross income,” reports Buck from GreatFlorida Insurance.
• Job Relocation-Your moving expenses are deductible if you took a first job and moved more than 50 miles away. You can deduct 23 cents per mile of getting you and your household goods to the new area, including parking and tolls.
• Casualty, Disaster and Theft-Casualty, disaster and theft losses can be deducted on your tax form, but the IRS has some stipulations. The IRS states, “You may not deduct casualty and theft losses, (generally covered by homeowner’s insurance) unless you reduce the loss by the amount of any reimbursement or expected reimbursement.”
• National Guard-National Guard and Reservists can claim overnight travel expenses.
• Gambling Losses-Your losses cannot surpass your winnings, which must be reported.
• Child Care-A child care tax credit is offered, worth 20 – 35 percent of what you pay in childcare while you work.

Financial management company, Intuit suggests a tax credit is better than a tax deduction because it reduces your tax, dollar-for-dollar. As painful as filing your taxes is, take your time to think back over your finances for the year to save money on your taxes.

GreatFlorida Insurance is the leading independent insurance company in Florida, offering health insurance, homeowner’s insurance, car insurance and boat insurance. Call us today for a free quote.

The post Overlooked Tax Deductions appeared first on The GreatFlorida Insurance Blog.